2025.04.10

Shrines and sightseeing routes dedicated to Prince Heishomon

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Prince Taira Shomon is a unique figure in Japan's history, and his legend and destiny still attract many people. In particular, the shrine dedicated to him welcomes many visitors as a mysterious spot deeply connected to history. Tucked away in Tokyo's business district, the shrine is a place associated with Prince Taira Shomon, and it creates a mysterious atmosphere where the city and history intersect. Visiting this ancient shrine is a rare opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of modernity and experience the stories of Japan in the past.

From the prosperity of the Takehei clan in the Heian period to the legend of Shomon, his life is colored by numerous stories. And the tourist route that follows in its footsteps is also a great chance to learn about history and culture. The anecdotes and cultural heritage of the region will take you to a mystery that has yet to be solved. Now, why not open the door to this mysterious journey and step into the world of Prince Heishomon?

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Recommended routes related to Prince Heishomon, Tokyo, Ibaraki

Recommended routes related to Prince Heishomon, Tokyo, Ibaraki

Follow in the footsteps of Prince Taira Shomon and provide a detailed route to his heroic life and the spiritual power that is still talked about after his death. Let's go on a trip to Bando City, Ibaraki Prefecture, which has a deep connection with the city, mainly in Tokyo, and deepen your understanding of Lord Shomon.

I. Pilgrimage to central Tokyo: Experiencing spiritual power and history

First of all, let's visit the shrines related to Lord Shomon scattered throughout the center of Tokyo and feel their spiritual power.

1. Masakazuka

Location: 1-2-1 Otemachi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
Access: Right next to Exit C5 of Otemachi Subway Station (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line, Hanzomon Line, Chiyoda Line, Tozai Line, Toei Mita Line)
It is said that after the venerable Prince Taira Shomon was killed, his head flew off and he was buried. In the Edo period, it was called "Shuzuka", and various monster stories have been passed down. In the Meiji era, it became a planned construction site for the Ministry of Finance (now the Ministry of Finance) and was about to be demolished, but there is an anecdote that it was rebuilt because many people involved in the construction were injured.
Pay your respects to Lord Shomon and pray for a safe journey. It has a quiet and sacred air that is different from the surrounding office districts. As a historical site that suddenly appears in the business district, please feel its foreign presence.
There are plenty of sightseeing spots in the vicinity, such as the Imperial Palace East Garden and the Marunouchi area. After visiting Shomonzuka, enjoy a walk around the area.

2. Tsukido Shrine

Location: 1-13-5 Kudankita, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
Access: 3 minutes walk from Kudanshita Station (Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line, Tozai Line, Toei Shinjuku Line)
It is said to be built in the Kamakura period, and is a venerable shrine dedicated to Prince Taira Shomon. Originally, it was enshrined in the place where the current Imperial Palace is located, but it was moved to its current location during the Edo period. In the precincts, there is a "helmet mound" that is said to have buried the helmet of Lord Shomon, and many people visit to pray for victory in battle.
Learn about the history of the shrine and its relationship with Lord Shomon. The temple grounds are equipped with various devices to appease the spirit of Lord Shomon.
recommendation ・ The annual festival is held in September and is crowded with many people. It is also recommended to visit during the festival season.

3. Kabuto Shrine

Location: 1-8 Kabutocho, Japan Bridge, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
Access・7 minutes walk from Japanbashi Station (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line, Tozai Line, Toei Asakusa Line)
It is a shrine that sits in the venerable Japan Bridge Kabutocho, and Kabutozuka is the origin of the name. It is said to have begun in the Heian period when Minamoto Keiki buried his helmet to pray for victory in battle. After that, it came to enshrine the spirit of Prince Taira Shomon, and now it is also worshipped by financial people.
Point Japan is located in the securities district and has a unique atmosphere. Feel its presence as the guardian of the economic world.
Recommendation・ Tokyo Stock Exchange is nearby. After visiting Kabuto Shrine, it is also a good idea to visit the stock exchange.

4. Kanda Myojin

Location: 2-16-2 Sotokanda, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
Access・About 5 minutes walk from Seibashi Exit at Ochanomizu Station on the JR Chuo Line and Sobu Line, about 7 minutes on foot from Electric Town Exit at Akihabara Station on the JR Keihin Tohoku Line, Yamanote Line, and Subway Hibiya Line
It is a historic shrine that is said to have been founded in 730 years. Along with the Great Noble Life (大国主命) and the Shohiko Meimei, the Prince of Taira Shomon is enshrined. In the Edo period, it was revered as the guardian of the Edo general town, and today it is worshipped as the god of luck and prosperity in business. In recent years, we have also been actively collaborating with anime and games.
The precincts are large and there are many things to see. In particular, the carvings of the Sojinmon Gate and the main shrine are stunning.
Various festivals are held throughout the year, such as the Setsubun Festival and the Kanda Festival. It is also a good idea to visit during the festival season.

5. Armor Shrine (Yoroijinja)

Location: 3-16-18 Kita-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
Access: 11 minutes walk from JR Okubo Station (JR Chuo/Sobu Line)
14 minutes walk from Higashi-Nakano Station on the JR Toei Oedo Line
It is said that the venerable Prince Taira Shomon dedicated the armor in prayer for victory in battle. It is visited by people who pray for good luck and longevity.
Point ・ It is located in a quiet residential area and has a calm atmosphere. In the temple grounds, there is a mound called the Armor Mound.
Recommended ・ In the vicinity of Shin-Okubo Korean Town. After visiting the Armor Shrine, you can enjoy a meal in Koreatown.

II. Visiting the hometown of Lord Shomon in Bando City, Ibaraki Prefecture

After your pilgrimage in Tokyo, be sure to visit Bando City in Ibaraki Prefecture. Bando City is the place where Prince Taira Shomon was born and raised, and there are many historical sites left.

1. Kokuo Shrine

Location: 3314 Iwai, Bando City, Ibaraki Prefecture
Access・About 10 minutes by car from Atago Station on the Tobu Railway
It is a shrine that is said to have been founded by the venerable Prince Taira Shomon. It is considered to be one of the most important shrines dedicated to Lord Shomon. In the temple grounds, wooden statues of Lord Shomon and armor are dedicated.
The precincts are large and have a solemn atmosphere. Let's take a closer look at the items related to Lord Shomon.
Recommendation・ The "Iwai Shomon Festival" held every November is crowded with many people. It is a grand festival in memory of Lord Shomon.

2. Enmei-in

Location: 3317 Iwai, Bando City, Ibaraki Prefecture
Access: About 10 minutes by car from Atago Station on the Tobu Railway (next to Kokuo Shrine)
It is a temple next to the venerable Kokuo Shrine, and it is the Bodhi Temple of Prince Heishomon. In the precincts, there is a five-ring pagoda that is said to be the tomb of Lord Shomon.
Point ・ Let's mourn the spirit of Lord Shomon in a quiet temple. The five-ring pagoda is cherished as a place where the soul of Lord Shomon rests.
Recommendation・ It is recommended to visit together with Kokuo Shrine.

3. Sakai Castle Ruins Park

Location: Ibaraki Prefecture Bando City
Access: About 15 minutes by bus from Tobu Railway Kawama Station
It is a place where it is said that the residence of the venerable Prince Taira Shomon was located. It is now maintained as a park, and you can remember the remnants of that time.
Point Take a stroll through the vast grounds and imagine what life was like back then.
Recommendation・ The cherry blossoms are in full bloom in spring, and many people visit.

4. Shomon Senbei (Masakado Senbei)

Location・ Each store in Bando City
Point ・ The standard souvenir of Bando City, "Shomon Senmochi", is a rice cracker named after Lord Shomon. There are various types and they are perfect for souvenirs.
Recommendation・ You can buy it at souvenir shops and roadside stations in Bando City.

III. Pilgrimage Tips: Deepen Your Understanding of Lord Shomon

Gratitude – When visiting shrines and historical sites, don't forget to be grateful.
You can understand it more deeply by gathering information and researching the history of each shrine and information about Shomon in advance.
If you have plenty of time and take your time to explore, you will discover more things.
It is also a good commemoration to collect red seals and red seals at each shrine.
Safety first, let's make a pilgrimage with a reasonable schedule and safety in mind.
You can gain a deeper understanding of the Heishomon Princes by referring to historical books and traditions. For example, "Shomonki" is a famous military story that depicts the life of Lord Shomon.
Interaction with the locals・ In Bando City, the locals carefully protect Lord Shomon and pass on the traditions. By interacting with the locals, you may discover something new.

IV. Prince Heishomon: Hero or Enemy of the Dynasty?

Prince Taira was a warlord who was active in the Kanto region during the mid-Heian period. He launched a rebellion called the Johei Tenkei Rebellion and called himself the "New Emperor", but was defeated by Fujiwara Hidesato and others.

The reputation of Lord Shomon has fluctuated greatly throughout history. While there is a view that he is an "enemy of the dynasty" who rebelled against the imperial court, there is also a view that he is a "hero" who tried to save the people suffering from oppression.

It is thought that the background to the strong spiritual power of Lord Shomon is his tragic life and the strong faith of the people.

Through pilgrimage, Lord Shomon living in the present day

A trip to the places associated with Lord Shomon is not just sightseeing. By touching history, feeling the spiritual power, and learning about the way of life of Lord Shomon, it will give us courage and hope living in the present day.

Lord Shomon, who is revered as the god of luck and good luck, gives us a powerful boost in the face of difficulties.

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